Dozens of lives were tragically lost as a dam burst in a town north of Nairobi, according to Governor Susan Kihika of Nakuru County.

The devastating incident occurred near Mai Mahiu, in the Rift Valley region, sweeping away homes and blocking roads.

While the confirmed death toll stands at 42, Governor Kihika fears it could rise as recovery efforts continue amidst challenging conditions.

This disaster adds to the toll of lives lost in Kenya due to heavy rains and flooding, with officials previously reporting 76 fatalities since March.

This grim event echoes a similar tragedy in May 2018 when another dam burst in Solai, claiming several dozen lives in the same region during severe weather conditions.